Getting a DUI in Maryland can feel overwhelming. Many people want to know what happens after a DUI and how a DUI will affect their license points in Maryland. Too many points and your insurance rates go up, you can’t get coverage, or you may have your driving privileges revoked.
Our DUI and Your License guide will walk you through what happens when you’re charged with a DUI, what license points are, and how a DUI lawyer in Baltimore can help. Understanding a DUI charge and how it affects your license can help you create a DUI defense in Maryland to help protect your rights.
What is a DUI in Maryland
A DUI in Maryland means driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. When you’re pulled over by the police, they may ask you to take a breathalyzer test to check your BAC. If you’re over the legal limit, you can be arrested for DUI. Even if your BAC is between 0.04% and 0.08%, you could still face charges if the officer believes you’re impaired.
While a DUI can lead to serious consequences, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this. A skilled DUI lawyer in Baltimore can help you navigate the legal process, explain your options, and work to reduce the penalties you may face.
License Points in Maryland
In Maryland, the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) keeps track of your driving record using a point system. When you’re convicted of certain traffic violations, like a DUI, points are added to your license. These points are a way for the state to track unsafe driving habits. You can take steps to manage these points and protect your driving privileges, but there is a limited window to do so following an accident, charge, or arrest.
For a DUI in Maryland, 8 to 12 points can be added to your license, depending on the specific charges and whether anyone was hurt during the incident. If you accumulate too many points, your license could be suspended or revoked, meaning you won’t be allowed to drive for a certain period.
Maryland has a system in place for how many points you accumulate and whether or not the points are related to an alcohol or drug related charge.
3 to 4 points – The MVA will send you a warning letter.
5 to 7 points – The MVA will require you to enroll in a Driver Improvement Program (DIP).
8 to 11 points – The MVA will send you a notice of suspension.
12 or more points – The MVA will send you a notice of revocation.
How Long Do DUI Points Stay on Your Record in Maryland?
Maryland license points can stay on your driving record for two years. That might sound like a long time, but after that period, they are no longer considered in your current driving history.
However, the DUI conviction itself may stay on your criminal record, which is why having a DUI lawyer in Baltimore by your side is so important. A lawyer can help reduce the impact of these points and work to minimize other consequences, such as fines or jail time.
What Happens to Your License After DUI Points Are On Your Driving Record
If you’re charged with a DUI, your license could be temporarily suspended. If you accumulate 8 to 11 points due to a drug or alcohol-related offense, the MVA may suspend your license for a few months. With 12 points or more due to an alcohol-related offense, your license could be revoked, which is more serious and could mean you’ll need to apply for a new license after a waiting period.
For either circumstance, you will receive either a notice of suspension or notice of revocation from the MVA. Following the notice, you have three options for how to proceed:
- Accept the suspension or revocation and turn in your current driver’s license
- Request a hearing to contest the suspension or revocation, within 15 days of the notice
- Apply for the ignition interlock program to retain some of your driving privileges
A DUI lawyer in Baltimore can help you manage this process and work to protect your ability to drive.
How a DUI Lawyer in Baltimore Can Help Reduce Your DUI License Points
Facing a DUI charge is serious, but having the right lawyer can make all the difference. A DUI lawyer in Baltimore is familiar with Maryland’s laws, including how DUI points work and what defenses might be available to you. Here’s how we can help when you’re facing possible DUI charges and license points in Maryland:
Explain the legal process: The legal system can be confusing, but our lawyers will explain each step and what to expect next
Challenge the evidence: If the police made mistakes during your arrest, we could challenge the breathalyzer test or field sobriety tests
Negotiate penalties: We work with the prosecutor to reduce the charges or penalties, possibly saving you from a harsher punishment like jail time or a longer license suspension
Help with license points: At Saller Law, we know the best way to manage the points on your license and help you avoid a suspension
While points from a DUI will stay on your record for two years, there are ways to improve your situation. In Maryland, you may be able to attend a driver improvement program (DIP) to reduce points. This program is a classroom-style course that helps drivers become safer and more responsible on the road. Completing a DIP may not eliminate all points, but it can show the MVA that you’re committed to improving your driving behavior.
We may also recommend enrolling in the ignition interlock program, which will allow you access to restricted driving privileges. This can help you maintain the ability to still drive for work, school, and other activities.
Get a Free Consult on DUI Charges in Maryland and Reduce Your License Points
Getting a DUI can be scary, but understanding your rights and how the point system works can make the process much easier to handle. Remember, the points won’t last forever, and with the help of a DUI lawyer in Baltimore, you can get through this situation with the best possible outcome.
Stay positive—this is something you can manage, and there are professionals ready to help you every step of the way. Get a free consult on DUI points in Maryland to understand what you need to do next.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many points does a DUI add to my license in Maryland?
A DUI in Maryland can add 8 to 12 points to your license, depending on the severity of the charge.
How long do DUI points stay on my record?
DUI points stay on your record for two years in Maryland. After that, they no longer count toward suspensions or revocations.
Will I lose my license after a DUI?
You could face a license suspension if you accumulate 8 to 11 points or a revocation if you have 12 points or more. Your lawyer can help reduce these penalties.
Can a DUI lawyer help me keep my license?
Yes! A DUI lawyer in Baltimore can negotiate to reduce your charges and help you manage the points on your license, possibly preventing a suspension.
Can DUI points affect my insurance rates?
Yes, having DUI points on your license can increase your insurance rates. Working with a lawyer to reduce the points can help keep these costs down.
